Lexmark MS821N LASERPR 55PPM 1200DPI vs Lexmark MS431dw Black White Laser Printer (2026): Key Differences
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When you compare the lexmark ms431dw black white laser printer vs ms821n laserpr 55ppm, you see two distinct tools. Both use laser technology for monochrome output. The MS821N targets high-volume workspaces with a 55 ppm speed and 1200 dpi resolution. The MS431dw focuses on compact offices, offering wireless connectivity and automatic duplexing in a smaller footprint. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize speed or space.
Key differences
| Aspect | Lexmark MS821 Monochrome Laser Printer | Lexmark Compact Monochrome Laser Printer |
|---|---|---|
| Print Speed | 55 ppm | not listed |
| Print Resolution | Up to 1200 dpi | not listed |
| Connectivity | not listed | Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB |
| Size | 17.5 x 16.85 x 20.1 in. | 8.7 x 14.5 x 14.3 inches |
| Weight | 56 pounds | 20.6 pounds |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Lexmark MS821 Monochrome Laser Printer if
- You need a 55 ppm print speed for high-volume tasks.
- You require up to 1200 dpi resolution for sharp text.
- You have ample floor space for a 56-pound machine.
Choose Lexmark Compact Monochrome Laser Printer if
- You need Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity out of the box.
- You want a compact printer that fits in small offices.
- You prefer a lighter machine at 20.6 pounds.
Verdict: Choose the MS821N if you need raw speed and high resolution for a busy office. Pick the MS431dw if you need wireless connectivity and a compact design for a smaller workspace.
Lexmark MS821N vs MS431dw Specs
Print speed
The Lexmark MS821N prints at 55 pages per minute. This high speed suits busy offices with heavy daily loads. You get fast output for large documents. The Lexmark MS431dw lacks a listed print speed in the provided data. You should check the manufacturer page for its exact rate. Without that number, the MS821N is the clear winner for raw throughput. If you need to produce many pages quickly, the MS821N is the better choice. The MS431dw is likely slower, as it is a compact model.
Print resolution
The Lexmark MS821N offers a print resolution of up to 1200 dpi. This provides sharp text and clear graphics. The Lexmark MS431dw does not list its print resolution in the available data. You may need to verify this spec elsewhere. Higher resolution often means better quality for detailed work. The MS821N gives you a known high-quality output standard. If print clarity is your main priority, the MS821N is the safer bet based on current information. The MS431dw’s resolution remains unknown.
Size and weight
The Lexmark MS431dw is significantly smaller and lighter. It measures 16.6 x 16.2 x 10.8 inches and weighs 20.6 pounds. This compact size fits well in small offices or home workspaces. The Lexmark MS821N is much larger and heavier. It measures 16.9 x 16.85 x 17.5 inches and weighs 56 pounds. This bulkier design requires more floor space. If you have limited desk space, the MS431dw is the practical choice. The MS821N needs a dedicated area for its larger frame.
Connectivity
The Lexmark MS431dw supports Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB connections. This allows flexible printing from mobile devices and networks. The Lexmark MS821N does not list its connectivity options in the provided data. You should verify its ports on the product page. The MS431dw’s wireless capability is a key advantage for modern offices. You can print from phones or tablets easily. The MS821N may lack these features, or they are not listed. For wireless convenience, the MS431dw is the clear winner.
Build quality
The Lexmark MS431dw features a steel frame and long-life imaging components. This suggests durability for daily use. The Lexmark MS821N does not list its build materials in the provided data. You may need to check the manual for details. The MS431dw’s steel construction is a noted benefit for longevity. It is designed to handle a recommended monthly volume of 800 to 8000 pages. The MS821N is a high-speed model, likely built for volume, but the specific build details are missing. The MS431dw offers known durable construction.
Which Lexmark laser printer fits your needs
High-volume office needing fast output
The Lexmark MS821N prints at 55 pages per minute with 1200 dpi resolution. This speed handles large daily loads efficiently. You get reliable monochrome output for busy workspaces. The robust build supports heavy usage without slowing down. Choose this model if speed and high capacity are your top priorities for document production.
Small team wanting wireless convenience
The Lexmark MS431dw includes standard Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity. It prints from mobile devices easily. The compact size fits small desks. You get automatic two-sided printing to save paper. This model suits light to moderate office use where flexibility and space saving matter more than raw speed.
Budget-conscious buyer for light use
The Lexmark MS431dw is lighter and smaller, weighing 20.6 pounds. It fits in tight spaces. You get essential features like duplex printing and security. This printer is designed for monthly volumes up to 8,000 pages. It is a practical choice for smaller teams that do not need industrial-level speed or resolution.
The products compared
Lexmark MS821 Monochrome Laser Printer
Best for: high-volume text printing tasks
- Print Technology
- Laser
- Print Output
- Monochrome
- Print Speed
- 55 ppm
- Print Resolution
- Up to 1200 dpi
- Width
- 16.9 inches
- Height
- 17.5 inches
View on Amazon: Lexmark MS821 Monochrome Laser Printer Affiliate link
The Lexmark MS821N is a monochrome laser printer designed for high-volume environments. It delivers a print speed of 55 pages per minute and a resolution of up to 1200 dpi. The unit measures 17.5 x 16.85 x 20.1 inches and weighs 56 pounds. This robust build supports heavy daily workloads. It suits teams needing fast output and reliable text quality.
Pros
- Fast 55 pages per minute print speed
- High 1200 dpi print resolution
- Monochrome laser technology for clear text
- Sturdy 56-pound build for stability
Cons
- Large footprint requires significant desk space
- Heavy weight makes relocation difficult
- Monochrome only, no color output
Good fit if
- You need high-speed monochrome printing
- You have space for a large printer
- You print heavy text volumes daily
Skip if
- You require color printing capabilities
- You have limited desk space
- You prefer lightweight, portable devices
Verdict: Lexmark MS821N 55 PPM Monochrome Laser Printer fits busy offices that prioritize speed and text clarity over color or compact size.
Lexmark Compact Monochrome Laser Printer
Best for: small offices needing compact monochrome printing
- Print Technology
- Laser
- Print Output
- Black and white
- Connectivity
- Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB
- Duplex Printing
- Automatic two-sided
- Features
- Duplex Printing, Mobile Printing
- Use Case
- Office
View on Amazon: Lexmark Compact Monochrome Laser Printer Affiliate link
The Lexmark MS431dw is a compact monochrome laser printer designed for small offices. It measures 16.6 by 16.2 by 10.8 inches and weighs 20.6 pounds. This model supports automatic two-sided printing and connects via Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB. It features a two-line display and a steel frame for durability. With a recommended monthly page volume of 800 to 8000 pages, it suits users who need reliable wireless printing in a small footprint.
Pros
- Compact dimensions fit in tight spaces
- Automatic duplex printing is standard
- Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity included
- Steel frame construction for durability
Cons
- Only monochrome output capability
- Limited two-line display interface
- No touch screen or advanced control panel
Good fit if
- You need a printer for a small office
- You require automatic two-sided printing
- You want wireless connectivity options
Skip if
- You need color printing capabilities
- You prefer a large touch screen interface
- You have high-volume printing needs over 8000 pages
Verdict: Lexmark MS431dw Compact Monochrome Laser Printer fits small offices needing reliable wireless monochrome printing. It suits users who value a compact footprint and automatic duplexing over advanced display features.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Lexmark MS821 Monochrome Laser Printer | Lexmark Compact Monochrome Laser Printer |
|---|---|---|
| Print Technology | Laser | Laser |
| Print Output | Monochrome | Black and white |
| Print Speed | 55 ppm | not stated |
| Connectivity | not stated | Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB |
| Duplex Printing | not stated | Automatic two-sided |
| Print Resolution | Up to 1200 dpi | not stated |
| Features | not stated | Duplex Printing, Mobile Printing |
| Use Case | not stated | Office |
| Scanner Type | not stated | Portable |
| Scanning | not stated | Wireless Scanning |
| Duplex Scanning | not stated | Duplex |
| Width | 16.9 inches | not stated |
| Height | 17.5 inches | not stated |
| Weight | 56 pounds | 20.6 pounds |
| Dimensions | not stated | 16.2 × 16.6 × 10.8 inches |
| Size | 17.5 x 16.85 x 20.1 in. | PRINTER |
| Color | Monochrome | BLACK |
| Model | 50G0050 | MS431dw |
Frequently asked questions
Which printer is better for a small office?
The Lexmark MS431dw is the better choice for small offices. It has a compact footprint with a width of 16.6 inches and a height of 10.8 inches. It weighs only 20.6 pounds, making it easy to place on a desk. The MS821N is larger and heavier at 56 pounds, which fits busy workspaces better than tight quarters.
Does the MS431dw support wireless printing?
Yes, the Lexmark MS431dw supports wireless printing. It also includes Ethernet connectivity for wired network connections. These features allow you to print from various devices without physical cables. The provided data for the MS821N does not list specific connectivity options, so you should verify its wireless capabilities separately if that is a priority.
Can the MS431dw print double-sided automatically?
Yes, the Lexmark MS431dw supports automatic duplex printing. This feature allows you to print on both sides of the paper without manual intervention. It also supports duplex scanning. This saves paper and reduces clutter in your workflow. The MS821N data does not explicitly confirm automatic duplexing, so you may need to check the manual for that model.
How heavy is the Lexmark MS821N?
The Lexmark MS821N weighs 56 pounds. This substantial weight reflects its robust build designed for high-volume environments. In comparison, the MS431dw weighs 20.6 pounds. The MS821N is significantly heavier, which makes it less portable. You should ensure your desk or floor can support the weight if you plan to move it often.
What is the print resolution of the MS821N?
The Lexmark MS821N offers a print resolution of up to 1200 dpi. This high resolution ensures sharp text and clear graphics for monochrome output. It is ideal for documents requiring precise detail. The MS431dw data does not list a specific print resolution, so you may need to consult the product manual for those exact specifications.
Is the MS821N suitable for high-volume tasks?
Yes, the Lexmark MS821N is suitable for high-volume text printing tasks. It prints at 55 pages per minute, which handles large daily loads efficiently. The device is designed for busy offices that prioritize speed and clarity. The MS431dw is better suited for smaller offices with lower daily print volumes due to its compact design and lighter build.
Does the MS431dw have mobile printing capabilities?
Yes, the Lexmark MS431dw supports mobile printing. This feature allows you to send print jobs directly from smartphones or tablets. It works alongside its wireless and Ethernet connectivity. This flexibility is useful for users who need to print from various locations within the office. The MS821N data does not explicitly mention mobile printing support.